Sociology with a Year in Spain

Sociology with a Year in Spain at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive exploration of the social world, examining the structures, processes, and dynamics that shape societies across the globe. This program provides an in-depth understanding of key sociological theories and methodologies, equipping students with analytical skills to critically evaluate social issues, institutions, and cultural practices. The inclusion of a year abroad in Spain enriches the academic experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in Spanish society, gain language proficiency, and develop intercultural competencies that are highly valued in today’s interconnected world. Throughout this programme, students engage with diverse topics such as social inequality, migration, gender relations, political systems, and globalization, using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The year spent in Spain not only enhances linguistic abilities but also offers unique insights into Spanish social structures and cultural norms, fostering a broader global perspective. The curriculum is designed to combine theoretical understanding with practical application, preparing graduates for careers in public service, research, international organizations, media, or further academic study. Specialist modules are complemented by opportunities for independent research, group projects, and engaging guest lectures, enriching the educational experience. With flexible options for honours pathways and a dedicated support system, students are encouraged to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The programme’s blend of rigorous academic content and real-world experience ensures graduates are well-equipped to analyze and address complex social issues, making a meaningful contribution to society.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

• SA300 - Social Problems and Social Policy I: Youth,The family and the State
• SO336 - Sociology of Everyday Life
• SO337 - Fundamentals of Sociology
• LS300 - Learning Spanish 3 (Post A Level)
• LS302 - Intensive Learning Spanish 1 (Beginners)
• SO305 - Introduction to Criminology
• SO334 - Modern Culture

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

• SO602 - Social Research Methods
• SO500 - Concepts and Theories in Sociology
• LS504 - Learning Spanish 3B(Intensive Post A-Level)
• LS505 - Learning Spanish 4

Year abroad

You spend the third year of a four-year programme studying at one of our partner universities in Spain.

Possible modules may include:

• SO606 - Year Abroad Mark One
• SO607 - Year Abroad Mark Two

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

• SO603 - Health and Health Policy
• SO657 - Digital Culture
• SO659 - Risk and Society
• SO668 - The Sociology of Work
• SO676 - Cultures of Embodiment
• SO678 - Caring for Vulnerable Adults: Understanding Social Care
• SO679 - Research Dissertation
• SO684 - Globalization and Development
• SO689 - Drugs, Culture and Control
• SO702 - Sociology and Social Politics of the Family
• SO702 - Sociology and Social Politics of the Family
• SO709 - Modern Chinese Societies
• SO710 - War, Atrocity and Genocide
• SA503 - A Future for the Welfare State? Social Change, Challenge and Crisis
• SA519 - The Social Politics of Food
• SA525 - Education,Training and Social Policy
• SA531 - The Care and Protection of Children and Families
• SO505 - Sociology of Crime and Deviance
• SO506 - Popular Culture, Media and Society
• SO509 - Health, Illness and Medicine
• SO532 - Mental Health
• SO533 - Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice
• SO534 - Violence and Society
• SO535 - Youth and Crime
• SO536 - Criminal Justice in Modern Britain:Development, Issues and Politics
• SO537 - Race and Racism
• SO538 - Childhood, Society and Children's Rights
• SO575 - Poverty, Inequality and Social Security
• SO594 - Terrorism and Modern Society
• SO595 - Reproductive Health Policy in Britain
• SO601 - Welfare in Modern Britain

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• A level ABB

• GCSE: C in a modern European language other than English

• Access to HE Diploma: We welcome applications from students on accredited Access courses.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma): The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate: 34 points overall or 16 at HL, including a modern European language other than English 5 at HL or SL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2013 financial support package includes a fee waiver and cash bursary, as well as additional funds on your Kent account to help with accommodation, food, books and other living costs. Find out more on our fees and funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created a new scholarship, The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages.

The Sociology program with a Year in Spain at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth exploration of social life, institutions, and social change through a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical perspectives with empirical research methods. This program is designed to equip students with critical thinking skills and a nuanced understanding of societal issues, preparing them for diverse careers in policy, research, education, and social services.

During the first year, students are introduced to core sociological concepts, including social theory, research methods, and key areas such as culture, inequality, and globalization. The second year deepens this knowledge through specialized modules that examine contemporary social problems, institutional structures, and the dynamics of social change. Students gain practical skills in qualitative and quantitative research techniques, data analysis, and academic writing, fostering their ability to critically evaluate social phenomena.

The year spent studying in Spain offers a unique cultural and academic experience. Students typically attend a partner university located in a vibrant Spanish city, where they can immerse themselves in a different cultural environment while continuing their sociological studies. This year abroad enhances language skills, intercultural competence, and global perspectives, which are highly valued in today's interconnected world. Students have opportunities to participate in local community projects, intercultural events, and academic exchanges, broadening their understanding of social diversity and comparative sociology.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop their research interests through individual projects and a dissertation, often incorporating cross-cultural comparisons with Spain. The program prepares graduates to pursue further academic study, including postgraduate research or professional careers in social research, policy analysis, community development, and related fields. Support services are available to assist students in securing placements and internships that complement their academic learning and enhance employability.

Overall, the Sociology with Year in Spain at the University of Kent is a rigorous and engaging program that combines theoretical foundations, practical skills, and international experience. It aims to produce reflective, culturally aware graduates who are capable of understanding and addressing complex social issues in diverse contexts.